Milan-Cortina Olympics rewrite history with epic wins and record-breaking feats
The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics made history with groundbreaking performances and record-breaking achievements. For the first time, three athletes over 40 claimed individual gold medals, while Norway dominated the medal table with 18 golds. The Games also introduced a new format, with two host cities and separate venues for the epic opening and closing ceremonies.
The 2026 Winter Olympics unfolded across a sprawling region roughly the size of New Jersey, costing an estimated $6.7 billion. The event marked the first time two cities—Milan and Cortina—shared hosting duties, with different locations for the opening and closing shows.
Norway led the medal count, securing a record 18 golds. Cross-country skier Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo alone won six titles, cementing his status as the standout performer. Meanwhile, the U.S. women's hockey team edged out Canada in a tense final, while the men's team triumphed 2-1 over Canada in overtime, thanks to goals from Matt Boldy and Jack Hughes.
Figure skater Alysa Liu delivered a historic double, winning gold in both singles and team events. Her singles victory made her the first American woman to claim the title in 24 years. Speed skater Erin Jackson also broke barriers, becoming the first Black woman to win an individual Winter Olympic gold.
The Games saw emotional moments too, including two American bobsledders—Elana Meyers Taylor and Kaillie Humphries—competing in front of their children. Both, in their 40s, added to the record of older athletes excelling at the highest level.
From shattered records to dramatic finishes, the event delivered unforgettable performances before the Olympic flame heads to Los Angeles for the 2028 Summer Games, set to begin on July 14.
The Milan-Cortina Olympics will be remembered for its firsts—three over-40 gold medallists, a dual-city format, and standout wins by athletes like Alysa Liu and Erin Jackson. With Norway's dominance and the U.S. securing key victories, the Games set a high bar for future competitions. The next chapter begins in Los Angeles in just over two years.
